MIC Offers Free Music Programs for K-8 Schools
September 5th, 2017
Photo copyright Elliot Mandel
September 19, 2017
The Music Institute of Chicago will offer one free music performance or activity to every K–8 school in proximity to its campuses, located in Evanston, Downers Grove, Lake Forest, Lincolnshire, and Winnetka, as well as on Chicago’s Near North Side during the 2017–18 school year. Schools in these and adjacent communities can request or collaborate on performances, listen-and-learn classes, musical instrument petting zoos, band and orchestra section rehearsals, master classes, and other music education activities.
In addition, students, teachers, and parents from these schools will receive free tickets to concerts on the Music Institute’s Faculty and Guest Artist Series, which take place at the historic Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue in downtown Evanston. A family-friendly concert opens the series on Saturday, September 23 at 7:30 pm. A reception follows the performance, when all audience members are welcome to enjoy frozen treats generously provided by Andy’s Frozen Custard.
Music Institute President and CEO Mark George said, “We are a community music school, and our K–8 schools are at the center of our community. We appreciate our K–8 music teachers and are eager to collaborate with them. Our goal is to inspire students and support the work of the teachers so their school music programs continue to flourish.”
Mary Jo Ferneding, music teacher at Greeley School in Winnetka said, "My students really benefitted from the sectional the Music Institute provided for the students in the chorus last year. It’s great that the Music Institute is offering free services for K–8 schools in the area. We really appreciate the Music Institute working with us.” From Wilmette’s Highcrest Middle School, Orchestra teacher Anne McTighe added, “The students had a blast and learned so much at the bass clinic provided by the Music Institute. I know what he talked to them about will really help improve their playing. Thank you for all the hard work you put into making this possible. I really appreciate being able to collaborate with the Music Institute.”
Interested teachers, principals, or PTO members can contact Manager of Community Engagement Victor Ribadeneyra at vribadeneyra@musicinst.org for more information, or call 847-448-8338.